Miss Universe 2022, R’Bonney Gabriel, recently shared her authentic experience riding a jeepney in the Philippines, captivating her fans with her grace and sense of humor despite the bumpy ride. The Filipino-American beauty queen took to Instagram to post a light-hearted video that captured her navigating what is often dubbed the Philippines’ “King of the Road.”
Embracing the Local Experience with Style
In the video, Gabriel, dressed casually, is seen holding tightly to the handrail, a common necessity given the jeepney’s energetic ride. She humorously captioned the clip, “When you’re terrified there’s no seatbelt in the jeepney and you don’t know what’s your stop so you just accept your fate,” revealing her playful acceptance of the unfamiliar situation. The post also mentioned a minor mishap where she hit her head, adding a realistic touch to the common challenges of jeepney travel.
Netizens React with Admiration and Humor
The beauty queen’s post drew numerous praises from netizens who admired her for maintaining poise during the ride. Fans also engaged with the post by suggesting humorous phrases she could use to signal the driver when she needed to stop, showcasing the interactive and communal spirit often found in Filipino public transport.
A Cultural Immersion
Since arriving in the Philippines on April 13, Gabriel has been actively immersing herself in Filipino culture. Her activities have included shopping for fabrics in Divisoria—a popular market in Manila known for its vast selection of goods—where she practiced “tawad,” the local term for haggling. This immersion is part of her ongoing commitment to her Miss Universe duties while connecting with her Filipino heritage.
Beyond the Jeepney Ride
Gabriel’s trip to the Philippines has been filled with notable experiences. Prior to her jeepney adventure, she visited Bohol, where she explored iconic sites like the Chocolate Hills and the province’s renowned beaches. She also made appearances on popular GMA shows “TiktoClock” and “Eat Bulaga,” where she was delighted to receive gifts of her favorite Filipino snacks, including ensaimadas and salted eggs.
Conclusion
R’Bonney Gabriel’s genuine engagement with the Filipino way of life and her approachable personality have endeared her even more to fans both locally and globally. Her willingness to dive into new experiences, like the jeepney ride, highlights her adventurous spirit and respect for the culture of her father’s homeland. As she continues to fulfill her role as Miss Universe, Gabriel’s adventures in the Philippines provide a refreshing glimpse into her year of reign, characterized by curiosity and a willingness to embrace new challenges.